Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Many problems

[JSulmar]

2002 2500 4X4 bone stock engine (Not high output). If cold or even cool weather and not plugged in, it will start, blow white smoke to fog the neighborhood and buck like a bronco (not kidding). If I don't ease on the throttle (very lightly), it will do it for ten minutes. With engine plugged in, it will start okay but have no power. I can have throttle to the floor and it will be at idle speeds. Then after several miles, being easy on the throttle, it will all of the sudden take off and run fine. I'm a novice diesel owner, but have checked all the filters. Truck has 180,000 and has done this for the past couple years (Yes, I procrastinate). Any ideas?

 

[JLandry]

Try unplugging the coolant temp sensor which is located by the thermostat housing on the top front passenger side of the engine and see if that changes the behavior. If it does, replace the coolant temp sensor.



Good luck,



John L.

 

[JSulmar]

Thank you, I will try tomorrow morning. In the meantime, if any other ideas pop up let me know. TDR members are the best!

 

[JLandry]

Just out of curiosity, have you checked the fuel pressure at the VP44 fuel injection pump inlet?



John L.

 

[JSulmar]

No, I have not. I will try to find someone with a guage and check that ASAP.
Thanks again.

 

[JSulmar]

Okay, I said I was a novice. Where would I do check that pressure. I'm sorry for the stupid questions, I'm learning.

 

[JLandry]

Okay, I said I was a novice. Where would I do check that pressure. I'm sorry for the stupid questions, I'm learning.

The fuel inlet port is located on the side of the VP44 fuel injection pump, which is located on the left front side of engine.



Take a look at the attached picture. This is a view of the VP44 if you were standing at the driver's side fender. The fuel inlet port is circled in red.



Any inexpensive fuel pressure test set should connect directly to the Schradar valve there on the VP44 fuel inlet port. You'll simply unscrew the cap on the Schradar valve and attached the hose from the fuel pressure test set.



You'll want to see a MINIMUM of 5 psi under a heavy load and wide open throttle. 15 psi or better at idle is desirable.



Best regards,



John L.

 

[JSulmar]

Mr. Landry, I will do this ASAP and let you know the results. Thanks again.

 

[WestTN]

You need to check for trouble OBDII codes. I suspect you will find the 216 code. That means a failed VP44.



Do this witout bumping the starter. Turn the ignition On-OFF-ON-OFF-On and watch the odometer for trouble codes. You ma have to make a list. Then go to the 911 forum on this site to see what the codes mean.



Good luck.